See you on the other side, Kernel

[JeninND]

This morning we had to say goodbye to our 3 1/2 year old sweetheart.

Over Thanksgiving he tore his left cruciate. We didn't figure out that's what it was for a few weeks. We decided to have the TPLO surgery on it, scheduled for this week.

Early this week, he tore his right one. He was unable to walk up and down stairs, and spent these last few days living in the basement, and going out the walk-out to eliminate. We put him on painkillers (Rimadyl, which he was already taking, and Tramidol), but he was still in so much pain.

The vet said surgery was still an option, but with both legs injured, recovery would be extremely difficult for him and us, as well as painful for him. Getting both legs done at the same time was not recommended, since he would not be able to bear weight on either leg.

Tuesday, Kernel stopped eating, and would only drink minimal amounts. He also began growling at me when I'd go downstairs to pill him, pet him, let him out. We felt this was his way of telling us it was time to let him go. He had not been himself since Thanksgiving.

I miss you so much, Kernel. Our house feels so empty and quiet without your constant presence. You were my daytime companion, my exercise partner, and my attentive audience when I needed to practice my music or my lines for a play. Thank you for teaching me about big dogs, and about Rottweilers, and allowing me to fall head-over-heels in love with the breed.

I don't know how I will be able to make it through the days without seeing your quirky ears, your caring & loving eyes, your silky fur, and your adorable rottie-butt. I hope you know we loved you more than we could ever express.

[observer]

I am so sorry for your loss of Kernel. They are so stoic, bearing so much pain, but still let us know when it is time. It's then that we come the closest to showing them the unconditional love they show us every day.

Know that he loved and trusted you right to the end, and knew that you loved him. You've got a wonderful Rottie angel watching over you. Treasure your memories, and in time, perhaps he will send you another Rottie to share your life with.

[livertw]

I am so sorry for your loss. Run pain-free, Kernel.

[kerry grant]

So sorry,Kernel is now free from pain and his ability to run has been restored at the bridge. Once again really very sorry for you.xxxx

[EmmysMom]

I too am so very very sorry for your loss.

[TR Young]

You did right by Kernal, but it still must hurt beyond what I can imagine.
Rest easy, fella, and enjoy your new legs at the bridge.

[rottgirl]

RIP Sweet Kernal

Take comfort in knowing you let him go with dignity and he is now pain free.

He will forever be your rottie angel.

Michele

[Dugganmom]

I am so sorry for your loss..... Such a young age....Godspeed Kernel

[gail pang]

I am sorry, he is running and romping pain free, with all th other
babies that have crossed over.

[Lola B Marie]

I wish I had a better words than I'm so sorry for the loss of your sweet boy. I know how you feel having lost a dear rottie 2yrs ago. You were very brave and very compassionate to let your boy go knowing how deeply you would miss him. These decisions are never easy but, they are the right ones for our animals. I had a really sick girl about 3yrs ago and I wish every day that I would have had the courage to help her go when it was time. Instead, I listened to a vet who said he could help her with surgery. She had post surgery bloat and died. I never got to hold her and say good bye. She trusted me and I let her down. You will forever have the peace in your heart that you did right by your boy. He left with dignity and love. Yes, he was very young, but it sounds like you taught each other so much while sharing a journey together. He will always hear your music, and when your heart heals, perhaps he will guide you to another rottie heart to hold.
Jane

[Sheenagirl]

I am so very sorry for the loss of your Kernel. I too lost my heart dog, Sheena, on Dec. 22nd. Just wanted to let you know you are not alone. There are many of us here that feel the pain you are feeling.
Kernel is free and no doubt playing with a lot of black & tan friends - until you and Kernel meet again....

[JeninND]

This board is so great. Thank you all for your heartfelt wishes. Even though I haven't posted here much, I knew I could count on the people in this place to understand exactly how I feel!

DH has started the breeder search.

[Troodie's Mom]

I am so sorry to hear that, losing them is always so difficult.
There will be good days and bad days, but what is painful to remember now will become precious fond memories in the future.

Lola B. Marie- please don't be so hard on yourself for doing what you thought was the best course of action at the time- your heart is in the right place and your dog knows that.

[Mojave's Mom]

I can't imagine the pain you are going through losing your baby at only 3.5yo. My thoughts are with you and your family. Hugs.

[AngelBunny]

I am so very very sorry for your heartbreaking loss. So young, so very young. You are the best owner Kernel could have had. You had the courage, grace, and depth of love to break your heart to release him from pain. There is greater expression of love for a dog.